Foden has scored 10 times in 48 appearances for City this season, but the most recent of those goals came on 14 December in the reverse fixture against Palace.
The midfielder has now gone 27 matches without scoring and Guardiola has acted by relegating him to the bench in recent months, with Wednesday’s start against Palace just his third in his past 13 league games and his first since 4 March.
“I would say I had a good half season – the first half – and dropped off a bit then struggled to find my place in the team,” Foden said.
“It happens when you have quality players around you and they are more at it than you, so I have had to wait and be patient, train as hard as I can and when you get your moment you have to take it.”
Although he wasn’t on the scoresheet against Palace, Foden reminded spectators of his talents with an instinctive pass that was converted by Semenyo and wildly celebrated by his manager on the touchline.
Foden provided two assists in a City game for the first time since December 2023 and it was the first time he has assisted two goals in the first half of a Premier League match.
He also created five chances in the first half against Palace. No player has created more in the opening 45 minutes of a Premier League game this season.
The local product was given a standing ovation when he was replaced on 82 minutes by John Stones and there was further cheer at full-time when he was announced as the man of the match.
The midfielder showcased his undoubted ability when crowned the PFA player of the year only two years ago but he spoke last season about off-field issues and injuries contributing to a campaign in which he “struggled”.
Though he has not fully fired this season, City’s commitment to the player is unquestionable as the two parties recently reached an agreement over a new contract at Etihad Stadium.
“These type of games, they play the low block, it is the talent for the wingers, like Phil in the first goal,” Guardiola told Match of the Day. “These types of games, the quality makes the difference and Phil is full of it in his body. I am beyond happy and satisfied.
“It has to be a big role in the future. We want the best for Phil and Phil has to deliver what he has done for many, many years. He felt how people loved him, the standing ovation from the actions. People want him to be happy.”
